Israel Asper, O.C., O.M., Q.C., L.L.D. (1932 – 2003) and Babs Asper (1933 – 2011) believed that philanthropy is a driving force behind positive change in people’s quality of life. For this reason, they formed The Asper Foundation in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada in 1983 to build upon their and the Asper family’s philanthropic objectives.
Inspired by a deep commitment to impactful philanthropy, The Asper Foundation, a Winnipeg-based philanthropic organization, develops major projects and provides support to the Jewish Community and broader community in areas of culture, education, community development, and human rights on a local, national and international scale. In particular, the Foundation strives to improve the quality of life in Winnipeg, therefore much of the focus of this philanthropy is directed to the general Winnipeg community.
In the recent past, over $200 million has been donated to various charitable causes through The Asper Foundation. This website not only reflects, but celebrates the inspired vision of Israel and Babs Asper and outlines the activities and future plans of The Asper Foundation.
Major Announcements
Support for Congregation Shaarey Zedek’s Capital Campaign
The Asper Foundation and the Gail Asper Family Foundation are pleased to announce a combined gift of $3 million to Congregation Shaarey Zedek toward its L’Dor Va Dor Capital Campaign. The campaign supports recent synagogue renovations which have transformed the space into a revitalized hub for Jewish worship and community-building. For more information, see here and here.
Enhanced Funding for Rady Cultural Programs
The Asper Foundation is pleased to announce an enhanced investment in cultural programming at the Rady JCC, reaffirming its longstanding commitment to build a vibrant, inclusive and thriving Jewish cultural landscape in Winnipeg. For more information, see here.
The Asper Foundation Strengthens JCFS Winnipeg through Empowerment Program
The Asper Foundation is proud to announce its support of the newly created Asper Empowerment Program at Jewish Child and Family Service (JCFS) Winnipeg. The Asper Empowerment Program will be dedicated to addressing critical issues such as food insecurity, financial literacy, and employment assistance primarily for individuals and families. For more information, click here.
Launch of Asper Community Shabbat Program
In April 2024, The Asper Foundation established the Asper Community Shabbat (Sabbath) Program with the inaugural Shabbat being hosted by the Jewish Heritage Centre of Western Canada and invited guests from the Bear Clan Patrol. For more information, click here.
Article: Shabbat Ceilidh: An Unforgettable Production by The Winnipeg Jewish Theatre in Partnership with The Asper Foundation (The Jewish Post, March 19, 2025)
Article: Interfaith outreach program brings Winnipeggers together (Winnipeg Free Press, February 1, 2025)
The Asper Foundation Spearhead’s Support for Campaign Against Antisemitism
The Asper Foundation is proud to be a foundational supporter for the creation of The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affair’s new Winnipeg office which serves Manitoba and Saskatchewan in response to concerns about rising antisemitism and anti-Zionism.
The office was created in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg and is led by Gustavo Zentner. For more information, click here.
